With a delicate drum roll and plenty of homemade soup, Warren County Democrats, who are practically family members of retiring Sen. Tom Harkin, welcomed a fairly new face to the table.

“If you don't take into account my speeches at the Harkin Steak Fry, yes, this is my first time campaigning in Warren County,” Braley said in an interview with KCCI before the event.

The congressman is starting early, shaking hands, attending soup suppers and speaking to Democrats about who he is, where he comes from, what he's done and what he plans to do.

“My parents have had a huge impact in my life,” Braley said during his speech to the overflow crowd.

Braley’s speech at the Summerset Winery was peppered with personal stories, including how his father served in the military and his mother is a longtime teacher.

Braley's speech was also political as he talked about things he accomplished in Washington. He made sure to mention he's worked with Republicans to get one of his bills passed.

“I really liked his speech, especially the fact that he can work with Republicans and has in the past. We have too much of the political part of it and not enough doing things for the people of the country,” Marilyn Kirkpatrick said.

Rep. Leonard Boswell, who lost re-election in November, was quick to endorse Braley -- even though there's still time for another Democrat to decide to run.

“I've watched him in many different settings, and he is ready for this,” Boswell said.

Braley said he's prepared for a primary, but isn't sure if it will happen.

“I just don't know what other people are thinking,” Braley said.

So far, Braley is the only person campaigning for the open Senate seat in 2014. No Republicans have stepped forward, although Rep. Steve King and Tom Latham have said they're seriously thinking about it.